This is the first installment of Sunday Praise, where I express gratitude.
My palms are up in gratitude to my Creator this Palm Sunday. Perhaps some of you are unaware of Palm Sunday. Let me give you a brief overview. Palm Sunday is the name for the day when Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey and the crowds waved palm branches as He passed by. The people cried out, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel.”
The word hosanna is a Greek transliteration of the Hebrew word hoshi’a na which means, “please, save us.” It is a word I have found myself proclaiming much this year. I am increasingly aware that I am not in control. However, I know there is One who is in control of my life. I know that He can save me from myself, from my self-destructive ways.
I am grateful for God’s care. I am grateful that He does not leave me to my own devices but provides help when I cry out to Him. I am not left alone. Step Three of the Twelve Steps says, “Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God.” I can daily make that decision knowing that the God I turn my life over to loves me.
“Gratitude turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos into order, confusion into clarity...it makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.” Melody Beattie
I cultivate an attitude of gratitude knowing that giving thanks improves my mind and mental well-being. One study, conducted by two psychologists, asked participants to write a few sentences once a week. One group wrote about what they were grateful for during the week. The other groups wrote about either what irritated them or had affected them. By the 10th week, the gratitude group felt better.
In another study, a psychologist asked participants to write about early memories. One of their assignments was to write and deliver a letter of gratitude to someone they had never thanked for being kind. The participants’ happiness greatly increased.
What are you thankful for today?
Resources
John 12:12-19 (Palm Sunday story)
Giving thanks can make you happier
Image by Barbara Jackson from Pixabay
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As you know cuz we've discussed it before I don't have a religion but I enjoy learning and thus one taught me a lot
I do believe in gratitude and respect
Gratitude is so important for our mental well being.